A high-profile branding agency has opened its doors downtown at 21 SE Second Place with the goal of revamping the UF brand.
160over90, a Philadelphia-based advertising and public relations company that serves clients including American Eagle Outfitters, Nike and Mercedes-Benz, celebrated its opening with a ceremony Wednesday morning.
The company has created about 35 new jobs and about $500,000 in capital investment in Gainesville as a result of its expansion.
Gov. Rick Scott, who spoke at the ceremony, said the opportunities the company has created for workers in Gainesville are invaluable.
“Jobs are people,” he said. “Someone’s life may be changed because of a job.”
Scott also noted that UF will benefit from its partnership with the company.
“160over90 will help make sure everyone knows UF is a top 10 in the country,” he said.
The company made the decision about a year ago to move to Gainesville to focus on redesigning the UF brand to showcase its potential as a top 10 university.
Additionally, it will better be able to serve pre-existing Southeastern clients.
Bernie Machen, president of the university, said while UF originally sought out the company to change UF’s brand and market its potential as a top 10 university candidate, he thinks the entire community will reap the benefits.
“(Company leaders) saw the buzz and were impressed enough to become a part of this buzz as well,” he said. “All of this bodes well for the city of Gainesville.”
Shannon Slusher, chief executive officer for 160over90, said the company chose Gainesville as its Southeastern headquarters because it was geographically relevant and had a “creative and technical heartbeat.”
“[Gainesville] has a cultural soul and unique identity with a passion for growth,” he said. “We’re super proud to call Gainesville our new home.”
Darryl Cilli, chief creative officer for the company, echoed Slusher’s sentiments.
He added that another reason the company decided to pick Gainesville was because it was an appealing location for employees.
“People want to work in a great college city. Gainesville is that city,” he said. “We’re humbled and privileged.”
John Carlson, a chair for the Council for Economic Outreach, also attended the event.
He said the opening represented the importance of collaboration between the local and state government, UF and 160over90.
Calson said the company’s decision to relocate to Gainesville was more than just a smart business move.
“It was wise, logical … and Gator smart,” he said.
A version of this story ran on page 1 on 10/24/2013 under the headline "Company draws jobs, Rick Scott to Gainesville"
Gov. Rick Scott, Darryl Cilli, Shannon Slusher and UF President Bernie Machen cut a ribbon after the ceremony at 160over90 on Wednesday morning promoting the new headquarters in downtown Gainesville. 160over90 is an international branding agency and is creating 35 new jobs with a $500,000 capital investment.
